The Manchester City star revealed that Hodgson’s influence and tactics had played a major part in lifting his game when he appeared to be struggling with injury and form, following his big-money move from Liverpool last year.

They had, he admitted, helped put the smile back on his face and given his international hopes a shot in the arm in the process.

Sterling, whose performance in the 2-1 warm-up win over Australia looks likely to have booked his place on England’s plane to France, said Hodgson’s decision to give him a role operating more in the middle had given him a huge boost.

“It’s a position I can get in behind and I’m closer to the goal,” he said.

Twitter reacts to Marcus Rashford's debut goal for England

MARCUS RASHFORD scored on his debut match for England against Australia and Twitter went crazy.

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“I’m most definitely enjoying my football”

Raheem Sterling

“Sometimes I have been drawn into staying out too wide but against Australia I got closer to the box and created stuff. It’s really a positive when the manager tells you every time you get the ball that he wants you to go forward.

“I’m most definitely enjoying my football. If I don’t go forward he has a dig at me, and that’s something I’m relishing – when someone really pushes you to want to go forward and play.”

Sterling admitted that his England form has helped make up for the disappointments he suffered with Manchester City last season .

“It was frustrating when injury kicked in and I had to get back into the team, “ he said.

“That’s what happens when you’ve got top players around you, you’ve got to work to get back. But I was really looking forward to coming away with England and hopefully booking my place in France.